In 1968, President Lyndon Johnson proclaimed National Hispanic Heritage Week to honor the contributions of Americans who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico, the countries of Central and South America and the Caribbean. Twenty years later, Congress extended this recognition into an annual month-long celebration, from September 15 through October 15.
In honor of this year's National Hispanic Heritage Month, Smithsonian.com discusses the changing demographics of the United States, talks with comedian George Lopez on humor and race, remembers a historic Little League Baseball team and highlights the food of Hispanic culture. In addition, Smithsonian.com offers a list of festivals, concerts and lectures at the Smithsonian Institution and throughout the country.
The Little League World Series’ Only Perfect Game
In 1957, Mexico’s scrawny players overcame the odds to become the first foreign team to win the Little League World Series
By Jim Morrison
The Changing Demographics of America
The United States population will expand by 100 million over the next 40 years. Is this a reason to worry?
By Joel Kotkin
George Lopez on Comedy and Race
The late-night talk show host discusses how America's changing demographics will affect what makes people laugh
By Lorenza Muñoz
Harlem Transformed: the Photos of Camilo José Vergara
For decades, the photographer has documented the physical and cultural changes in Harlem and other American urban communities
By Jamie Katz
Food & Fun
A Brief History of Chocolate
Uncover the bittersweet story of this ancient treat and watch a VIDEO
By Amanda Bensen
A Brief History of Chocolate
Uncover the bittersweet story of this ancient treat and watch a VIDEO
By Amanda Bensen
A Brief History of Chocolate
Uncover the bittersweet story of this ancient treat and watch a VIDEO
By Amanda Bensen
